THREE of Europe’s highest profile goalkeepers have heavily criticized the ball to be used at the upcoming World Cup, suggesting there’s still time for change.

Spaniards Pepe Reina and David de Gea as well as German Marc-Andre ter Stegen have spoken out about the Adidas Telstar 18, which is a reimagining of the ball used at the 1970 and 1974 editions of the tournament.

“I bet you as much as you like that we’ll see at least 35 goals from long range [in Russia], because it’s impossible to work out,” said Reina.

“And it’s covered in a plastic film that makes it difficult to hold on to.

“Goalkeepers are going to have a lot of problems with this ball.”

De Gea echoed his international teammate’s sentiment, adding that “its really strange.”

“It could have been made a lot better.”

Barcelona stopper Ter Stegen, who started in goal for Germany’s 1-1 draw with Spain on Saturday morning AEDT, spoke candidly about the issues with the Telstar but conceded he and his fellow keepers have no choice but to get used to it.

“The ball could be better; it moves a lot,” Ter Stegen told AS.
“But I think we’re just going to have to get used to working with it, and try to get to grips with it as quickly as possible before the World Cup starts.

“We’ve got no other option.”

However, Reina argued that there is still time for the issues to be righted.

“They should change it - there’s still time,” the Napoli star said.

The World Cup kicks off on 14 June as hosts Russia take on Saudi Arabia.